Academics Overview
Authors: Staff Legal Eagle
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Last updated: 22 Sep 2015
Introduction to the Role of Academics
Legal academics perform a very important role in the community. Their job is to critically analyse the law and then use this knowledge to educate students, influence policy and assist lawyers and judges in their work.
Academics generally work in universities but can also work for research institutions or as independent contractors. Some academics are hired primarily as teachers and others as researchers. Teachers will give lectures to students, mark students’ work and organise coursework. Researchers will conduct research, write articles and textbooks and sometimes provide consultancy work. Most academics will undertake a combination of both.
Legal academics also contribute greatly to law reform and community legal aid services by providing independent, critically analysed opinions and advice on the law and its application.
See our Role of Academics Overview Guide